I first met Bob over 50 years ago in Los Angeles. Myself, and two others , had started a Telecommunications Company. My friend, Jim Altman, came to me one day and wanted me to meet this guy who worked for Lipton Tea. He said he was sharp, personable and came across very professional. Also said he was really a fun guy. All of those adjectives proved to be correct.
I’ll never forget the Business Trip Bob, Jean Stiegemeier & I took to Japan, Korea and Hong Kong. In the Orient, especially in those days, a good deal of attention was paid to the “Boss/Leader”. Proper respect MUST be shown to the lead person. At that time, I happen to hold that title and Hogan played it to the hilt. It was Mr Nelson this and Mr Nelson that. He would get my chair at a meeting, always make sure he got the door and would inquire as to my well being constantly. Jean and I thought it was hilarious but I’m sure our hosts thought of him as attentive.
Our first home in LA was in Redondo Beach. We lived there for a couple of years then decided to sell. I advertised the home as having an ocean view. We were having a gathering at our home one evening when a prospective buyer shows up. Hogan immediately took charge of the situation and began showing the prospect through the property. The flamboyance he would employ in introducing each room was hilarious. It was so entertaining that there was a line of house guests following them around just so they could hear Bob’s sales pitch. Admittedly, I may have over stated the quality of our Ocean View. Bob took the man to our front porch. He asked him to hold onto the roof drain pipe and lean to his right. “There you have it Mr. Smith, isn’t that a majestic ocean view.” RESULT: No sale but lots of laughs.
Fifty years of wonderful memories. I love Bob, I love Linda, I love Brady and I love Heather. I thank Jim Altman for introducing us and I thank the lord for giving us such a close friendship.